If you’re looking for a show-stopping holiday dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, homemade peppermint patties should top your list. These creamy, refreshing treats are surrounded by a rich chocolate shell and sprinkled with festive decorations, making them perfect for gift-giving or indulging during the holidays. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dessert that’s better than store-bought. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious peppermint patties, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – Adds creaminess and sweetness to the filling.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons peppermint extract – Provides that signature minty freshness. You can adjust the amount to taste.
- 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 3/4 cups powdered sugar – Forms the base of the peppermint dough and ensures the right texture.
- 3 cups dark chocolate candy melts – Creates the rich, glossy coating.
- 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles – Optional but adds a festive touch.
With these pantry staples, you’re ready to embark on creating a holiday masterpiece.
Why Homemade Peppermint Patties Are the Best
Making peppermint patties at home allows you to customize their flavor and presentation. Here are some reasons why this recipe stands out:
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the peppermint and sugar levels to suit your palate.
- Freshness: Homemade patties taste fresher than store-bought alternatives.
- Creative Freedom: Add colored sprinkles, drizzle with white chocolate, or shape them into festive designs.
- Healthier Option: You control the ingredients, avoiding unnecessary additives.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect peppermint patties:
1. Make the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract.
- Add half of the powdered sugar and mix on low speed using a hand or stand mixer.
- Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, continuing to mix until a smooth dough forms.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if the dough is sticky or a splash of water if it’s too dry.
2. Roll Out the Dough
- Sprinkle powdered sugar over a large piece of parchment paper.
- Place the dough on the parchment and sprinkle more powdered sugar on top.
- Roll the dough out to a 1/2-inch thickness.
3. Cut Out Rounds
- Spray a round cookie cutter (1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter) with cooking spray.
- Cut circles from the dough and transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- If the dough becomes too soft, chill it in the freezer for 5-10 minutes before continuing.
4. Freeze the Patties
- Once all the rounds are cut, cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and freeze the patties for 20 minutes. This step ensures they hold their shape during the chocolate coating process.
5. Melt the Chocolate
- Place the dark chocolate candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
6. Dip the Patties
- Using a fork, dip each peppermint round into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Lift the patty out, allowing excess chocolate to drip off, and place it back onto the parchment paper.
- Immediately top with holiday sprinkles before the chocolate hardens.
7. Cool and Serve
- Let the chocolate coating set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Store the peppermint patties in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Tips for Perfect Peppermint Patties
- Consistency is Key: The dough should be firm but pliable. Adjust with powdered sugar or water as needed.
- Work Quickly: Chocolate can harden fast, so add sprinkles immediately after dipping each patty.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate candy melts for the best taste and texture.
- Chill in Stages: Keeping the dough and patties cold helps maintain their shape during preparation.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Arrange the peppermint patties on a decorative plate or include them in holiday treat boxes.
- Storage: Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Gifting: Wrap the patties in cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for a charming presentation.
Variations to Try
- Flavored Fillings: Swap peppermint extract for orange, almond, or lemon extract.
- Different Coatings: Use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
- Shape Options: Create star, heart, or tree-shaped patties using themed cookie cutters.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate works well and provides a sweeter flavor profile.
2. How do I prevent the chocolate from hardening too quickly?
Work in small batches and keep the melted chocolate warm using a double boiler.
3. Can I make these patties vegan?
Yes! Substitute sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version and use vegan chocolate.
4. How do I fix sticky dough?
Add more powdered sugar until the dough is firm but still pliable.
5. Can I freeze the patties for longer storage?
Yes, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.
6. What’s the best way to add sprinkles?
Sprinkle them immediately after dipping the patties in chocolate while it’s still wet.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Of course! Simply double the ingredient amounts and enjoy more patties.
Conclusion
Homemade peppermint patties are a classic treat that never fails to impress. With their creamy peppermint centers and rich chocolate shells, they bring festive cheer to any holiday table. This simple recipe is not only fun to make but also allows you to add a personal touch to your holiday desserts. Whether you’re making them for yourself, gifting to loved ones, or contributing to a holiday spread, these peppermint patties are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the process of creating a delightful homemade treat that’s guaranteed to satisfy!
Peppermint Patties Recipe: A Festive Homemade Treat
- Total Time: 41minutes
- Yield: 18 patties 1x
Description
Learn how to make creamy, minty homemade peppermint patties coated in dark chocolate. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or festive desserts!
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/4 teaspoons peppermint extract (or more to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 3/4 cups powdered sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 3 cups dark chocolate candy melts (e.g., Ghirardelli)
- 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
- Combine condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
- Add half the powdered sugar and mix on low speed. Gradually add the rest until a smooth dough forms. Adjust with powdered sugar or water for consistency.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Sprinkle powdered sugar on parchment paper, place the dough on top, and sprinkle more powdered sugar. Roll to 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut Rounds:
- Use a cookie cutter (1 to 1 1/2 inches) sprayed with cooking spray to cut circles. If dough softens, freeze briefly to firm up.
- Freeze Patties:
- Transfer rounds to a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and freeze for 20 minutes.
- Melt Chocolate:
- Place dark chocolate candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip Patties:
- Use a fork to dip each peppermint round into the melted chocolate, fully coating it. Place on parchment paper and top with sprinkles immediately.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Keep the dough chilled to make handling easier.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Add sprinkles or decorative drizzles right after dipping to customize your patties.
- Prep Time: 30minutes
- Cook Time: 1minutes